NCJ Number
81255
Date Published
1980
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Family characteristics which research has correlated with the evolution of criminal behaviors are reported on, as are measures which might reduce socialization deficits arising from family problems.
Abstract
Disruptive family experiences include broken homes, serious psychodynamic obstacles such as unresolved value conflicts between adult family members, and a lack of parental affection and concern for children, compounded by the inability to communicate with them. Excessive parental strictness and physical punishment, especially by fathers; numerous siblings and cramped living quarters; and maternal employment outside the home likewise contribute to socialization deficiencies. Although the link between disruptive family situations and incomplete socialization has been established by research, the further connection to a specifically criminal orientation remains to be made. In the meantime, preventive measures include parenting skills training, which was begun in the United States and successfully adapted in German programs. Other assistance and support possibilities are information services for parents, family therapy, day care of several other children by mothers caring for their own in the home, financial assistance to families raising children, and foster family services. In addition, discriminatory attitudes toward disadvantaged and broken families must be overcome through public education efforts. Understanding of troubled families by the public at large may contribute resources and assistance to existing programs and lessen the criminogenic effects of class discrimination. Footnotes are given.